Racing driver Christian Bakkerud was behind the wheel of his 155mph Audi RS6 Quattro when he failed to negotiate a roundabout and ploughed into a concrete barrier.

The impact caused the Dane’s car – which was travelling at nearly 80mph in a 30mph zone – to become airborne before somersaulting down an embankment and landing on top of a railing.

Westminster coroner Dr Shirley Radcliff described the pictures of the crash as ‘the most remarkable I have seen’.

Former Le Mans driver Mr Bakkerud, 26, did not have his blood alcohol level tested but friends insisted he was not drunk prior to the accident in Putney, south-west London, last September.

He died in hospital of head, chest and abdominal injuries a day later.

Recording a verdict of accidental death, Dr Radcliff added: ‘Unusually, it was a high-performance car matched by a high-performance driver.’

Hamilton’s F1 helmet was engraved with Bakkerud’s initials as a tribute.

In a statement, Mr Bakkerud’s family paid tribute to ‘a happy and smiling man who was a key part of our lives’.

‘We have received the result of the hearing and we are now able to get some closure on what has been an extremely tragic year,’ the statement added.’We have lost our son and an upcoming responsible husband to his fiancée. Christian was popular with a lot of people and had many friends.’All those who know and have worked with Christian in international motorsports will know what a talented driver he was. Christian was well-known and respected; he was a safe and well regarded racing driver known for his patience and respect of other drivers.’He prided himself on discipline, and always worked with the upmost responsibility. He conducted his life with balance and respect, and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.’